2004 Mercedes-Benz CL230

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK230 Kompressor is a sporty coupe known for its stylish design and comfortable ride. It features a supercharged 2.3-liter inline-4 engine producing 192 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. The CLK230 was available with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. Owners often appreciate the car’s elegant appearance and smooth driving experience, but common complaints include electrical issues and certain mechanical failures related to its age. Other engine options include a 3.2L V6 rated at 215 hp and a 5.0L V8 rated at 302 hp. Transmission options varied with the engines, including 5-speed automatics on the V6 and V8 models.

Engine

2.3L Supercharged Inline-4 (M111)

• Failed Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Failed Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Supercharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise, loss of power, decreased boost.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ depending on rebuild vs. replacement.

3.2L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, low oil levels, burning oil smell. Often from valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.

5.0L V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil seeping down the sides of the engine, burning oil smell, low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, limp mode, transmission stuck in gear, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate and filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaking from the transmission pan or around the electrical connector, hard shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the pan gasket and/or electrical connector seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side depending on whether just bushings or the entire arm is replaced.
• Failed Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noise from the suspension, especially over bumps, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per pair.

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing from the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote not working, alarm issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component (e.g., door lock actuator, PSE pump, wiring).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the issue.
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, slow or jerky window movement, clicking noise.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per window

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the wheel wells, door edges, and around the trunk.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity.

Interior

• Center Console Cup Holder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cup holders break easily, making them unusable.
  • Solution: Replace the cup holder assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, making noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800

Recalls:

• 2004070004 - Power Steering Hose Leak
• 2006070004 - Brake Light Switch Replacement
• 2014100002 - Takata Airbag Inflator

Summary:

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK230, while stylish and enjoyable, presents a mix of common issues. Engine problems related to sensors and supercharger components, particularly in the 2.3L supercharged engine, are frequent. Transmission issues like conductor plate failure in the 5-speed automatic can be costly. Electrical problems and suspension wear are also prevalent. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.